Jonathan Babineaux thanks his family, fans

Defensive end Jonathan Babineaux, who played out a five-year, $25 million contract, re-signed with the Falcons at a reduced rate on Tuesday.

Babineaux, 32, signed a three-year extension at $3 million per year, which suggests the Falcons believe that the defensive tackle/end can handle a reduced roll in the defensive line rotation.

Babineaux, who was drafted in 2005 by the Falcons, was elated to have the opportunity to finish his career with the franchise.

“I started my NFL career 9 years ago as an Atlanta Falcon and I am happy to announce that I am continuing as a proud member of the Atlanta Falcons family,” Babineaux said in a statement released by his publicist Cherry Banez. “I want to thank my family, friends, the Atlanta Falcons organization, and my fans for their love and support on and off the gridiron.

“I consider these 10 years and more with the Atlanta Falcons as blessings from God to be able to provide for my family and to give back to the Atlanta community. Remaining an Atlanta Falcon and in Atlanta as my home were the best decisions for me and my family.

"Thanks again to my family, friends, fans, the press for your support, see you at camp and the games soon!”

Babneaux is a tireless community worker and has donated to more than 80 charities, foundations, at-risk schools and non-profit organizations that serve the medically-fragile or under served adults and children of Atlanta and Port Arthur, Texas.